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Real Estate News |
Do the math ... affordability of homes depends on many factors
Thu, 2 Feb 2012 15:00:00 CST
I did some math this morning when I saw 30-year mortgage rates still under 4%. That's unbelievably low...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 1 Feb 2012 17:00:00 CST
Should I buy a home with my boyfriend? Can I take over my neighbor's mortgage?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00:00 CST
How can I get out of my listing agreement? Why has my bank cancelled my home's foreclosure?..[read more]
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Demystifying exchanged-property timelines
Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST
The start of 2012 has many investors looking for bargain properties, sometimes in bunches. The ways of funding the purchases also have become more creative as buyers rethink the role of real estate not only for their portfolios but also for their res..[read more]
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Selling this spring? Start cleaning now
Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST
Spring is the busiest time of the year for selling a home. The trees are budding, the grass is green, the songbirds return, and homebuyers feel the urge to begin their home-buying search...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:00:00 CST
Why do I need to fill out a form to see property? Can a seller accept another offer during our negotiations?..[read more]
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Don't take anyone's word for it
Fri, 13 Jan 2012 15:00:00 CST
Negotiations were tense when I bought a used backyard play house for my two-year-old. The seller wanted $60. I countered with $50. We consulted our attorneys, faxed amended offers back and forth include the plastic fireplace logs or no deal but fin..[read more]
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Tell it like it is ... or else
Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 CST
If you're selling your house, why would you tell potential buyers about the stuff that's wrong with it? Caveat emptor, right? Not so fast...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:00:00 CST
Can I evict my tenants?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 4 Jan 2012 14:00:00 CST
How many homestead exemptions can we claim?..[read more]
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Return of once-popular investor loan makes sense
Thu, 29 Dec 2011 12:00:00 CST
Two years ago, the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), one of the largest professional membership associations in the world with more than a million members, floated its idea of a housing solution to attendees at its annual convention...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:00:00 CST
Doesn't water damage have to be disclosed? Why won't my lender call me back?..[read more]
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Texas economy still best; 2012 looks to mirror 2011
Tue, 27 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST
On New Year's Eve, many bid farewell to the old year by singing "Auld Lang Syne" lyrics that include, "Should old acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind."..[read more]
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Got a complaint against a mortgage company?
Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:00:00 CST
As of Dec. 1, 2011, consumers can file complaints against mortgage companies with the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) through the agency's home page...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 13 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST
How do I gain access to my neighbor's townhouse? Can I run a business from my apartment?..[read more]
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Could you save more money when buying? It doesn't hurt to ask
Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST
I think I lost some money. How? My wife and I probably would have qualified for assistance when we bought our first home. I'm not positive about that since we didn't even explore the idea...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 06 Dec 2011 11:00:00 CST
Does my significant other have to be on the deed?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST
Who certifies inspectors? How do I get a property's mineral rights?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 22 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST
Can the county make me pay taxes from before I owned a property? What constitutes normal wear and tear?..[read more]
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Why pricing your home from a Web site could cost you thousands of dollars
Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST
Home valuation Web sites are great ... except when they're wrong ... which is most of the time...[read more]
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New tools to help manage your vacation rentals
Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST
An old friend of mine who owns and operates a small development company showed up in town for a weekend event. We blocked out some time to revisit the old days and what's in store next. Like me, his four children had grown and gone...[read more]
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Opportunity's knocking ... answer the door, buy a home
Wed, 16 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST
The national media still reports on the collapse of the housing market and the downturn in the economy. While I agree unemployment is still too high and housing is not appreciating the way it did from 2000 to 2006, I believe opportunity's knocking. N..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:00:00 CST
If I die first, does my second husband get the house?..[read more]
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Why has this great house been on the market for so long?
Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST
If I told you a house had been on the market for the average amount of time for its neighborhood, would that affect your decision to make an offer? How about if I told you that it had been on the market for 13 months?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 07 Nov 2011 14:00:00 CST
How long do I have to keep tenant records?..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:00:00 CST
Unfortunately, the drought in Texas continues and, according to most reports I read, it's not likely to let up for another year. For me, that means it's time to scale back on our lawn watering...[read more]
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Texas home sales up nearly 18% compared to Q3-2010
Tue, 01 Nov 2011 11:00:00 CST
Texas homes continued to hold their value as sales jumped up sharply in the third quarter of 2011, according to the new Texas Quarterly Housing Report released by the Texas Association of REALTORS...[read more]
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What does buying a home have to do with a visa?
Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:00:00 CST
A recent bill introduced in the Senate would offer visas to foreigners who make a cash investment of at least $500,000 in residential real estate. Foreign investors could spend at least $500,000 on one residence or spend at least $250,000 on a reside..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 CST
In our first year as homeowners, I was excited about Halloween. Trick-or-treaters don't frequent many second-floor apartments, so for the first time, I would get to open my own door to a front porch full of giggling witches, ghosts, and princesses. S..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 25 Oct 2011 10:00:00 CST
Should I tell buyers that the county has my house's square footage wrong? Why did that foreclosed house sell for less than my bid?..[read more]
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Voters can help solve Texas water problems
Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:00:00 CST
Like cowboys, oil derricks and football, droughts are native to Texas. Now an extraordinary drought has gripped our state, capturing national headlines as it decimates crops, kills trees and cracks home foundations...[read more]
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Let's do this the right way - support Proposition 2
Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:00:00 CST
I support Proposition 2 because I think the availability of a clean, reliable water source is one of the biggest long-term priorities facing this state ... on par with education and healthcare...[read more]
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Give your house that un-lived-in look
Fri, 21 Oct 2011 15:00:00 CST
How many family photos are in your living room? Go ahead, count them. You need to know how big a box you'll need to pack them up...[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:00:00 CST
The Texas wildfires have really been on my mind lately. For some living in neighborhoods at risk, residents had as few as five minutes to evacuate their homes. That got me thinking ... am I prepared to evacuate my home in five minutes?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 18 Oct 2011 13:00:00 CST
What does no smoking mean? Should the house be in both our names?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:00:00 CST
Should I let a builder use my property? Are bonuses to selling agents legal?..[read more]
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It's not going to fix itself ... really
Mon, 03 Oct 2011 10:30:00 CST
About six months ago, I heard a knocking noise coming from a bedroom in my house. I discovered that it wasn't coming from the room, but outside it - a woodpecker was having quite a time on a trim board near the roof...[read more]
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Invited to the foreclosure table, finally ... investors
Fri, 30 Sep 2011 16:00:00 CST
Lenders have always viewed real estate investors with a wary eye. It seems all investors are grouped into flip-and-run speculators with little skin in the game, no plan for maintenance and repair, yet huge expectations for short-term profits...[read more]
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Biggest expense? Not the price of the horse ... uh, house
Thu, 29 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST
Typically, when people decide to buy a home, they don't start their search with a certain-priced house in mind. They start with a list of features they want and need...[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 28 Sep 2011 09:00:00 CST
If you live anywhere near Texas, you already know that devastating wildfires have been ravaging our state. In fact, an official of the American Red Cross recently told me that we've had a wildfire burning every day somewhere in Texas since December 2..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 26 Sep 2011 11:00:00 CST
How can we terminate our listing agreement? Is my verbal lease enforceable?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:00:00 CST
Can I get my neighbors away from my bedroom window? Is it unethical for a real estate agent to serve on an HOA's board where she sells homes?..[read more]
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Affected by wildfires or want to help others who were?
Tue, 20 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST
For those of us who haven't been through it, it's hard to imagine what it's like to leave your house as a wildfire approaches. Many Texans have faced that situation this year. Thousands have returned to find their property and belongings damaged or d..[read more]
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An easy way to lower your property-tax bill
Tue, 13 Sep 2011 10:00:00 CST
What has four pages and can knock $15,000 off the taxable value of the home you purchase? The application for a residence homestead exemption...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 13 Sep 2011 09:00:00 CST
Can we change the contract at closing? Is my listing invalid? Can I cut tree roots?..[read more]
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Two ways to beat other buyers to the home of your dreams
Wed, 31 Aug 2011 09:00:00 CST
Before you even find a house you'd like to buy, you may want to sit down with your Texas REALTOR and talk about the contract. That way, when you do come across your dream home, you'll be able to craft an offer that will leave other buyers shaking the..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 23 Aug 2011 09:00:00 CST
What happens when three people own land and two of them want to sell it? Can my neighbor block my easement?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:00:00 CST
Who can make my neighbor move his fence off my property?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 8 Aug 2011 14:00:00 CST
How can I prevent my neighbor from planting on his side of my fence? Can potential buyers control how I use my air conditioner?..[read more]
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What will you do when your home purchase gets derailed?
Fri, 5 Aug 2011 14:00:00 CST
Something will go wrong when you try to buy a home. There are too many pieces ... too many people ... to expect a real estate deal to glide to a successful result without a single hitch...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 1 Aug 2011 15:00:00 CST
Where do I get my deed now that I've paid off my mortgage?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:00:00 CST
Who has to pay for a wheelchair ramp?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Thu, 7 Jul 2011 09:00:00 CST
Verbal offers, terminating listing agreements..[read more]
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Price fixes a lot of ugly
Fri, 1 Jul 2011 10:00:00 CST
One of the most discussed issues at our house is ... our house. Not the house we just bought, mind you, but the one my wife owned before we got married. We made the decision to hang on to it and give property management a shot...[read more]
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Second-home owners look to alternative financing
Thu, 30 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST
Many second-home owners, especially those in the full-time vacation rental business, are looking to purchase another property but are facing stringent financing guidelines...[read more]
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Should you hire an agent if you already found a buyer?
Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST
We could have sold our home without an agent...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:00:00 CST
Verbal offers, security deposits in foreclosure, and terminating listing agreements..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Mon, 20 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST
Any day now, something very exciting is going to happen in our house: our 13-month-old son will take his first steps. My husband and I have been eagerly anticipating the event, holding our breath each time we set him on his wobbly feet. We're ready f..[read more]
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Are you ready to buy?
Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST
As I was watching TV the other day, I saw a commercial that said, "It's a great time to buy a house."..[read more]
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Prevent your house from languishing on the market
Fri, 3 Jun 2011 14:00:00 CST
There's a house in my neighborhood that's been on the market since last year. It now has a "New price!"..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Thu, 2 Jun 2011 09:00:00 CST
Last week, a visit with my insurance agent prompted me to write a post on having the right insurance policy for your home. While I was updating my family's current policy, another question occurred to me - what about what's in my home? Am I certain I..[read more]
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Make a list, check it more than twice
Tue, 31 May 2011 14:00:00 CST
Have you made The List? You know ... that collection of must-haves, nice-to-haves, and better-not-haves for your new home. If you haven't made yours, you should...[read more]
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I think I'm going to renew
Tue, 24 May 2011 15:00:00 CST
As hard as it is for me to believe, my wife and I have been in our new house for six months already. Like many recent homebuyers, we were given a home warranty on our purchase...[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 CST
For a household with two working parents, a one-year-old, and three pets, "busy" is hardly an adequate description of our lifestyle. While it has been a work in progress, I am proud that most days things don't completely fall apart, and every now and..[read more]
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Even the perfect house may have some problems
Thu, 12 May 2011 10:00:00 CST
You're not likely to find a perfect house. You might find the perfect house for you, but it almost certainly will have some flaws...[read more]
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Texas REALTORS ... Working for you!
Wed, 11 May 2011 09:00:00 CST
Usually, people only think of REALTORS when they are about to make a decision on buying or selling a home. But did you know that Texas REALTORS work for you all year long? Members of the Texas Association of REALTORS work with our local, county, and ..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 9 May 2011 14:00:00 CST
Can the seller just change his mind after we make an offer?..[read more]
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Before putting your home on the market, make it bigger
Fri, 6 May 2011 08:00:00 CST
Alright, I'm not really proposing that you put an addition on your house before you sell it. But I do recommend making the rooms in your home look bigger, because you'll never hear a buyer say, "I was really hoping for something more cramped."..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 4 May 2011 09:00:00 CST
Yep, we're those parents. The ones who jump up and down like fools when our son learns how to clap and who throw big parties for his first birthday. On our journey to becoming those parents, we discovered something handy: our neighborhood has a clubh..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 3 May 2011 08:00:00 CST
Can the neighbors make me move a fence that's been in place for 50 years?..[read more]
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Considering homeownership? Set goals first ... please.
Wed, 27 Apr 2011 14:00:00 CST
I bought my first house in 2004 and, looking back, I realize how hard I made it on myself - and others in the transaction - because I wasn't working from a clearly defined plan. And that's really the first step...[read more]
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Why I think you need professional help
Tue, 26 Apr 2011 10:00:00 CST
Why haven't real estate agents gone the way of travel agents? I've heard that question many times. To me, the answer is simple: Buying a house ... or commercial or investment property ... is nothing like booking a trip...[read more]
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What to ask the sellers after closing
Tue, 19 Apr 2011 09:00:00 CST
I can't believe they left me a pile of trash, I thought. My wife and I had just closed on our first home and walked into our new kitchen to find papers, booklets, cans of paint, and other items stacked on the counter...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 18 Apr 2011 10:00:00 CST
Can the buyer sue me even though he knew the house had termites?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:00:00 CST
Is my former listing agent entitled to a fee?..[read more]
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Pick the right projects - avoid diminishing returns
Fri, 08 Apr 2011 11:00:00 CST
My wife and I sold our house in December of 2010 after about four months on the market - but the process started a long time before that...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 04 Apr 2011 15:00:00 CST
Can we rent out of state and maintain a homestead exemption in Texas?..[read more]
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How I won't negotiate my next home purchase
Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:00:00 CST
Have you heard the term mental accounting? It's the notion that people make financial decisions based on perceptions and emotions rather than more-objective criteria...[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 30 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
I'm so excited, I can hardly stand it: my husband and I are going on vacation!!! A real vacation! No sleeping on family members' fold-outs and no work. Just beaches, water views and food enough for an army for seven glorious days. I can smell the sea..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 29 Mar 2011 14:00:00 CST
Does someone have to pay the rest of my dead brother's lease?..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:00:00 CST
My husband and I are fortunate to have a large, tight-knit family. Between us, we have 19 wonderful nieces and nephews who live just three hours away and this weekend, six of them came to visit...[read more]
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How splitting the difference can cost you
Wed, 23 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
Let's say I want to buy your house. You're selling it for $200,000, but I offer $160,000. You're not selling it for that amount, so you counter with $190,000. I then propose that we split the difference, at $175,000. Do you think that's a fair price?..[read more]
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Legislature working to eliminate private-transfer-fee scam on Texas homebuyers
Tue, 22 Mar 2011 13:00:00 CST
Lawmakers are considering legislation to prohibit private transfer fees on real estate transactions. These fees require a buyer to pay a percentage of the sales price of the home to a private entity each time the property is sold for a designated per..[read more]
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One rotten apple doesn't ruin whole market
Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
If I buy a house today, will it be cheaper tomorrow? In other words, if I buy now, what is the likelihood my property's value will decline, and I won't be able to sell it for what I paid for it? Put yet another way, have we hit bottom on home prices?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 21 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
Does the listing broker owe us money for the home inspection?..[read more]
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Please spend your money
Tue, 15 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
Like my colleague, I watch a lot of HGTV. Not only are they relevant to my profession, but having just remodeled one house and bought another one, I find the shows interesting...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
Can separated spouses claim more than one homestead exemption?..[read more]
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How mortgage rates should affect your buying decision
Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
If you're thinking of buying a home, you probably want to know what's going to happen with mortgage rates. I can help you with that...[read more]
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When house hunting, watch your Ls and Cs
Wed, 09 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
When buying a house, a good Texas REALTOR will assist you with the "Ps and Qs" of the contract, inspection, and closing process. They will help ensure the "Ts" are crossed and the "I's" are dotted...[read more]
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Think twice before restarting your mortgage clock
Tue, 08 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
There used to be a big push by lenders to secure "customers for life." Not only did banks promote attractive mortgage programs, but they also targeted the same customers for checking and savings accounts, individual retirement accounts, credit cards,..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
Can a homeowners association sue me for a violation that occurred in 1976?..[read more]
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Don't let little flaws scare away buyers
Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:00:00 CST
I watch more Home and Garden TV than I care to admit, especially the show "House Hunters." On it, people looking to buy a home are paired with a local Realtor and shown three properties. At the end of the show, the homebuyers make an offer on one of ..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
What's the seller's duty to disclose a roof leak?..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
If you've read my biography, you know that part of my day job is serving as Public Relations Counsel for the Texas Association of REALTORS. Normally, you won't find this blog crossing over with that role ... except when it does...[read more]
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Give yourself an option
Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
Whoever invented the undo function in computer software is one of my heroes. Think about it: If something doesn't turn out the way you intended, hit Control + Z and - poof - it never happened. There aren't many places in life where you get to undo yo..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Wed, 09 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
"Winter" and "Texas" usually only go together when you're talking about Winter Texans - those smart folks who escape to our state to avoid frigid temperatures in hometowns of Chicago or Fargo. Last weekend, however, "winter" and "Texas" collided in a..[read more]
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How to choose your agent
Tue, 08 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
My wife and I are not the FSBO type. She's too practical and I'm too worried about messing up some seemingly insignificant business detail, only to have it come back and bite me on the backside...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 01 Feb 2011 09:00:00 CST
I'm about to buy a house.The seller states in the Special Provisions section of the contract that he's selling the house "as is."I have an inspection scheduled during my option period. If the inspector finds a major problem, can I still opt out of th..[read more]
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Sellers: Would you respond to an insult?
Mon, 31 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
If a potential homebuyer made you a low offer ... and I mean really low ... would you be offended?..[read more]
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Lone Star Livin'
Tue, 25 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
My husband came home with this adorable puppy. A mix of Labrador and hound, she was about five pounds with floppy ears and a sweet little face. Despite all that cuteness, I still had hesitations...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 24 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
My father owns a condo that's been on the market for a year. He installed new carpet, repainted all the rooms, and updated all the light fixtures. The problem is the outside. We've gotten a lot of feedback from showings that the condo's exterior is s..[read more]
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A real (estate) enemy at the gates
Fri, 14 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
I have never been a fan of using a bogeyman to make a point. It takes away from intelligent and thoughtful discourse and often leaves a wake of irrational fear...[read more]
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You're buying the neighborhood, too
Mon, 10 Jan 2011 10:00:00 CST
Just remember ... when you purchase a home, a neighborhood comes with it...[read more]
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Resolving to buy a home in 2011? Resolve now to do it right
Fri, 07 Jan 2011 14:00:00 CST
Many people start the new year with resolutions about losing weight, starting a new physical fitness routine, or getting their financial house in order...[read more]
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Second homes under mortgage interest microscope
Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
The possibility of eliminating the mortgage interest deduction on primary residences continues to draw interest in the nation's capital...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: My husband and I submitted a signed offer, earnest money, and option fee to a listing broker's "broker associate" for a piece of property...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: I need to lease a home where a man murdered his wife before committing suicide. I've know it's a good idea to disclose such an event to a potential buyer, but what about a potential tenant?..[read more]
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Employment growth helps Texas economy outpace nation's
Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:00:00 CST
Employment in the Texas private sector is keeping the state's job growth headed in the right direction...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 22 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: We gave three months' notice of our intent not to renew the lease of the single-family home we've been renting for two years...[read more]
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The forms, they are a changin'
Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
The Texas Real Estate Commission has adopted a slew of changes to the contract used by the vast majority of homebuyers and sellers...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: My wife and I bought an incomplete home from a builder...[read more]
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Why I'm jealous of today's homebuyers
Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
When I bought my current home, nobody was talking about real-estate-market woes or foreclosure troubles or a struggling national economy...[read more]
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Yes, it's still your house ... now get out!
Mon, 08 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
You know you should make yourself scarce when prospective buyers look at your house, right?..[read more]
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What the foreclosure mess means for buyers
Mon, 01 Nov 2010 09:00:00 CST
The foreclosure mess has certainly gotten messier. What does it all mean for buyers?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: We live in an apartment complex where I fear for my family's safety. There are large dogs with muzzles. My car has been broken into. Are these valid reasons to break my lease?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: My husband died. How do I put our house's title in my name?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 27 Sep 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: If I sell my home in a few years, do I have to disclose long-repaired pest damage?..[read more]
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Ready to jump into homeownership but need a little push?
Wed, 11 Aug 2010 09:00:00 CST
Maybe you've been taking steps toward buying a home and now you're frozen...[read more]
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Inside Texas Real Estate - audio podcast
Wed, 04 Aug 2010 09:00:00 CST
Analysis of the Texas Quarterly Housing Report; a new site for Texas homebuyers..[read more]
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Closing deadline extended for tax credit
Wed, 07 Jul 2010 09:00:00 CST
Thousands of Texas homebuyers in jeopardy of losing their federal homebuyer tax credit have received a reprieve...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 06 Jul 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: What are some pitfalls to avoid with my short sale?..[read more]
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You might qualify for homebuyer assistance
Fri, 25 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST
I wish there had been a Web site like TxHomePrograms.org when I was buying my first house...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: Should I disclose that I'm selling a haunted house?..[read more]
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Rules of thumb for judging investment home, cash flow
Thu, 10 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST
If you bought an investment home now and rented out, is there any way of knowing if it will appreciate?..[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: I just found out that the seller "forgot" to disclose a water claim. What can I do?..[read more]
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Light rail ... urban transformers?
Thu, 27 May 2010 09:00:00 CST
Its worth considering that the benefits of light rail may go beyond how many vehicles it removes from the road...[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 24 May 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: How can I lend someone money and use his property as collateral?..[read more]
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Not quite an open and shut case
Tue, 18 May 2010 09:00:00 CST
If you're wondering whether you should you hold an open house.......[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 17 May 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: The contract to sell my house expires this week. How much longer am I obligated to my agent?.......[read more]
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Even past the deadline, homebuyer assistance is available
Tue, 04 May 2010 09:00:00 CST
The federal homebuyer tax credit has received a lot of coverage over the past several months, but one thing not widely publicized is that the April 30 deadline doesn't apply to everyone.......[read more]
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Texans pay less of our income on shelter
Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
Texas' lower-than-national-average housing cost is one reason for the state's higher-than-national-average growth rate.......[read more]
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I've heard of a Trojan horse, but a Trojan house?
Wed, 21 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
How much do you know about private transfer fees in Texas? Gabe Lopez discusses a disturbing new trend.......[read more]
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Get moving to qualify for the federal homebuyer tax credit
Tue, 20 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
It's coming down to the wire. You have only until the end of April to get a house under contract if you want to take advantage of the federal homebuyer tax credit.......[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: Does a seller have to provide a disclosure notice for a short sale?.......[read more]
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The best way to know what you're getting into
Tue, 06 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
If you're buying or selling real estate, I have a must-read for you .......[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 05 Apr 2010 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: A seller accepted my offer via e-mail. Is that legally binding?.......[read more]
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How to know if estimated loan fees will stick
Thu, 25 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has revised some home-loan rules that attempt to give us what we want........[read more]
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Using a real estate IRA to acquire property in Mexico
Tue, 23 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST
Like second-home sales in the U.S., the sales of Mexican homes have been limping along.......[read more]
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A tale of Texas taxes
Fri, 19 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST
Here is one assertion I bet all Texans will agree with - property taxes in our state have a peculiar way of increasing.......[read more]
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Prepare yourself for a good closing
Wed, 03 Mar 2010 09:00:00 CST
Closing is a process that begins weeks before the actual closing date, and follows an outline dictated largely by the buyer's original offer.......[read more]
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Understanding the lingo - comps
Wed, 17 Feb 2010 09:00:00 CST
So, you're selling your home and everyone you interviewed to list your home has mentioned "pulling comps"........[read more]
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Forget the forecast; look out the window
Fri, 12 Feb 2010 09:00:00 CST
Hanging on through difficult economic times means different things to different people........[read more]
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Some luxury developers await quality investors, buyers
Thu, 28 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST
Hanging on through difficult economic times means different things to different people........[read more]
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All real estate is local
Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST
Is it a seller's market or a buyer's market? Be careful where you get your information........[read more]
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The secret's out
Wed, 20 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST
It's one of the worst-kept secrets out there: Texas is a great place to live........[read more]
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Keep copies
Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:00:00 CST
It's important to keep the paperwork.......[read more]
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Homestead exemption scams
Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST
You must apply for the exemption, but there is no fee associated with applying for a homestead exemption.......[read more]
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Some lenders too picky on foreclosure financing
Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST
Remember when lenders were content to sell foreclosed homes to any qualified buyer?.......[read more]
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If the last tree in the forest falls...
Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST
If governmental entities had full discretion on what was a public good, all private real property would be at risk of being appropriated for the public good.......[read more]
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Overpriced or under-analyzed?
Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST
A look at Forbes list of cities where homes are most overpriced........[read more]
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Buy a home, get a tax credit
Tue, 01 Dec 2009 09:00:00 CST
If you were thinking of buying your first home but just couldn't get it together in time to take advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit, you have an extension. Congress gave you about five more months........[read more]
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Ask George and Chuck
Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST
Dear George: Where can I find someone who will insure my home?.......[read more]
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Letters of distinction
Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST
One certification, available only to Texas REALTORS, is called Texas Affordable Housing Specialist.......[read more]
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The tax credit isn't the only help for homebuyers
Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 CST
It looks like Congress is going to extend the homebuyer tax credit........[read more]
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Why must they lie?
Thu, 15 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST
If you could hook up a lie detector to an e-mail, the needle would be jumping on this one.......[read more]
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Even wooly-headed profs have good ideas
Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST
A pair of researchers at CERGE-EI, a Czech university, examined evidence about the origins of the housing bubble and whether it ever existed at all.......[read more]
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No fun being number 1
Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST
Texas ranks 14th in the amount residents pay in property taxes. Our state is also first in how much we pay in property taxes. How can that be?.......[read more]
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Primary owners now in the seasonal rental game
Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:00:00 CST
Approximately 15% of vacation rental owners have rented their primary residence to travelers, and the practice is becoming more common.......[read more]
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Lost in translation
Mon, 28 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST
On Nov. 3, 2009, the voters of Texas will once again have an opportunity to take a stand against the burdensome and uneven taxation of residential property.......[read more]
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Expect the unexpected (and the expected)
Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST
The cost of home maintenance and repairs is usually one of the biggest surprises for new homeowners.......[read more]
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Time is ticking on $8,000 credit
Thu, 17 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST
I hope homebuyers understand the deadline for the $8,000 federal tax credit. Getting it wrong could cost someone a lot.......[read more]
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Pre-approval or pre-qualification?
Fri, 04 Sep 2009 09:00:00 CST
While both may put you in a potentially stronger buying position, getting pre-approved by the lender carries a bit more weight.......[read more]
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Get your credit in shape first
Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:00:00 CST
If you are considering purchasing a home, you might want to begin by taking a look at your credit.......[read more]
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A $68,000 credit on a home? Seriously?
Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST
No, it's no joke. As a first-time homebuyer with a moderate income, you may be able to save $68,000 on a home. That's $8,000 on the purchase and $60,000 over the life of a 30-year loan.......[read more]
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Finding the right neighborhood
Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:22:00 CST
Picking a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle and desires is an important part of the homebuying process........[read more]
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Safety tips for home sellers
Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:00:00 CST
If you're selling your house, there are some safety tips you should be aware of to keep yourself and others safe during the process.......[read more]
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All real estate is local
Tue, 14 Jul 2009 08:00:00 CST
Is it a seller's market or a buyer's market? Be careful where you get your information to answer that question .......[read more]
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Texas REALTORS push pro-homeowner agenda through 81st session
Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST
When the gavel fell June 1 on the 81st Texas Legislature, Texas homeowners were better off.......[read more]
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Landlord in the making?
Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:00:00 CST
Are you considering buying an investment home as a rental property? This may be a good time to start .......[read more]
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Truly affordable housing
Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 CST
Many buyers make a common mistake when purchasing a home by trying to buy too much house.......[read more]
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Eight thousand reasons to buy your first home
Fri, 20 Feb 2009 08:00:00 CST
If you've been paying attention to the recent "stimulus" activities in Washington, you already get the reference to 8,000 reasons in the headline above. It's really only one reason, but it could be worth $8,000 to you.......[read more]
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Twelve tips to sell your home
Fri, 19 Dec 2008 08:00:00 CST
There are few things more frustrating to a seller than a home that sits on the market. It's stressful to keep a house in showing condition, and not selling can cost you lots of money.......[read more]
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Closing costs
Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:00:00 CST
Everyone knows that in most cases you'll need at least a small down payment to purchase a home.......[read more]
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Home warranties
Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:00:00 CST
After you buy an existing home, let's face it - the last thing you want to worry about is a broken big-ticket item like the air conditioner or oven.......[read more]
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The next level of clean
Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:00:00 CST
Aside from the necessary intrusions, the most inconvenient aspect of having your house on the market may well be keeping the house in showing condition.......[read more]
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Be ready to buy
Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:00:00 CST
If you find what you're looking for in a home, you should be prepared to make an offer quickly.......[read more]
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Can this be fixed?
Tue, 26 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST
You've heard it 1000 times; don't ever buy a home without getting a home inspection.......[read more]
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What does the recently passed housing bill mean for you?
Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST
This month on our "Inside Texas Real Estate" podcast you can learn how the Housing and Economic Recovery Act helps first-time homebuyers and homeowners struggling to afford their mortgages.......[read more]
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Don't be deceived by numbers
Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST
There's a common statistic in the real estate world called Days on Market, or DOM. Some people believe a property that has been on the market for a while must have serious problems, but this is not necessarily the case.......[read more]
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Restricted access
Mon, 04 Aug 2008 08:00:00 CST
If you're selling your home and you require advanced notice, ask your agent to put the restriction and reason in the private remarks section of MLS.......[read more]
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Disappear
Wed, 16 Jul 2008 08:00:00 CST
When your house is on the market, it's important to be flexible with your showing times. Part of that flexibility is having the capacity to .......[read more]
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Understanding the lingo - points
Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:00:00 CST
Points is a common word you'll hear when you're in the process of buying a home or acquiring financing. But what does it mean? .......[read more]
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Don't outsmart yourself
Wed, 25 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST
Are you one of the people who is trying to "time the market" and wait for home prices to go down before you make a purchase? Doing so may not be as wise as you think........[read more]
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Any time's a good time
Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST
"Now's not the best time ... can we set something up for later?" These are words that a buyer and his agent do not want to hear when they're out looking for a property.......[read more]
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What not to do
Thu, 12 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST
You'll be given all kinds of advice and pointers about what you should do and how you should do it, but there are things you shouldn't do that are equally important........[read more]
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Selling a vacant house
Wed, 04 Jun 2008 08:00:00 CST
So you've accepted your new job and have moved on to your new life in a different city.......[read more]
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Not just the house
Thu, 29 May 2008 08:00:00 CST
After you've made the decision to buy a home, it pays to prioritize your needs and wants.......[read more]
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Dealing with lowball offers
Wed, 21 May 2008 08:00:00 CST
When your home is on the market, a prospective buyer may come at you with a lowball offer.......[read more]
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Maximizing your exposure
Fri, 16 May 2008 08:00:00 CST
Exposure is the key to selling fast and getting top dollar. The more people who see your home, the sooner you will find a willing buyer.......[read more]
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Different kinds of real estate Web sites
Tue, 13 May 2008 08:00:00 CST
From the way consumers acquire information about properties and neighborhoods to the way agents market themselves and their listings, real estate, like so many other industries, has been fundamentally altered by the Internet........[read more]
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Como pagar su prstamo ms rpidamente
Thu, 08 May 2008 08:00:00 CST
Una respuesta inmediata seria reestructurar su prstamo de un plazo de 30 aos a uno de 15.......[read more]
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Internet presence
Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
There's so much information on the Internet. Literally thousands of real estate sites are out there.......[read more]
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After the inspection
Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
You're serious about buying this house; in fact, you've already put down earnest money, the option fee, and even gotten an inspection.......[read more]
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Think about the future
Thu, 24 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
Is this a starter house or one that you plan to stay in.......[read more]
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Entice buyers with extras
Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
If you're putting your home on the market, or if it has been on the market for a while without solid offers, you may consider including some appliances, furniture, or other extras in the asking price.......[read more]
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Final walk-through
Tue, 15 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
Closing is just days away! You're about to make a huge investment and you've been running around town taking care of business........[read more]
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Protjase al vender su casa
Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
A partir del primero de enero del 2008, toda persona interesada en solicitar una licencia de agente de bienes races en Texas, como vendedor o como corredor, ahora debe proveer sus huellas digitales para un chequeo del FBI sobre antecedentes criminale..[read more]
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El mes de la igualdad en la vivienda
Tue, 08 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
Anualmente Texas se une a al resto de la nacin para celebrar el mes de la igualdad en la vivienda.......[read more]
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The tax factor
Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:00:00 CST
You might consider consulting with a tax adviser regarding the sale's impact on your federal tax return.......[read more]
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Landscaping counts
Mon, 24 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST
When you're selling your house, you obviously want it to stand out.......[read more]
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Coming to your senses
Wed, 19 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST
The more you do to prepare your home for market, the more money you can expect to pocket at the closing table.......[read more]
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Spend some time in your kitchen
Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST
The kitchen could be the most important room in a house........[read more]
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Moving out
Mon, 03 Mar 2008 08:00:00 CST
If you are selling your home, create a moving checklist to ensure a smooth transition from one property to the next........[read more]
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From seller to buyer
Tue, 19 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST
Although your property could sell in a couple of days, the real dilemma you may face is finding your next home........[read more]
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Protect yourself
Fri, 15 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST
While it's certainly not common, there are reports of sellers' possessions disappearing during a showing.......[read more]
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Take an impromptu visit
Tue, 05 Feb 2008 08:00:00 CST
When you begin narrowing your selection or you find that you've fallen head-over-heels in love with a certain house.......[read more]
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